Radiofrequency Ablation
A minimally invasive procedure that uses precisely controlled heat energy to disrupt pain signals at the nerve source, providing relief that typically lasts 12 to 24 months for facet joint pain, back pain, and neck pain.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA), also known as radiofrequency neurotomy, is a procedure in which heat generated by radio waves is used to create a precise lesion on a pain-transmitting nerve. This disrupts the nerve's ability to send pain signals to the brain, providing significant relief for months to years. RFA is most commonly used to treat pain from the facet joints of the spine — small joints connecting each vertebra that frequently become arthritic and inflamed.
Unlike epidural steroid injections, which reduce inflammation temporarily, RFA interrupts the neural pathway itself. For appropriate candidates, it provides far longer-lasting relief.
Lumbar and Cervical RFA
DVPSI performs radiofrequency ablation at both the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) spine levels. The procedure targets the medial branch nerves, which carry pain signals from the facet joints.
Lumbar Radiofrequency Ablation
Treats lower back pain from lumbar facet joint arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylosis. Most common form of RFA. Targets L3 through S1 medial branch nerves depending on the affected levels.
Cervical Radiofrequency Ablation
Treats neck pain and cervicogenic headaches from cervical facet joint disease. Targets C3 through C7 medial branch nerves. Often combined with occipital nerve block for patients with referred headache pain.
The Diagnostic Process
RFA is not the first step. It follows a proven diagnostic pathway:
First Medial Branch Block
A diagnostic injection of local anesthetic is placed at the medial branch nerves supplying the suspected facet joints. You track your pain relief over the following hours.
Second Medial Branch Block
Most insurers require a second confirmatory block. Significant relief from both blocks confirms facet joint pain as the source and qualifies you for RFA.
Insurance Authorization
DVPSI staff manages the prior authorization process with your insurer using documentation from your diagnostic blocks.
Radiofrequency Ablation
Using fluoroscopic guidance, the RFA needle is precisely positioned at each target nerve. A stimulation test confirms correct placement before the ablation is performed.
Recovery
Most patients return to normal activity within a few days. Full relief develops over 1 to 3 weeks as the nerve lesion matures. The procedure can be repeated when pain returns.
Conditions It Treats
What to Expect at DVPSI
All RFA procedures at DVPSI are performed under real-time fluoroscopic guidance with contrast confirmation. A stimulation test is performed at each level before ablation to confirm that the needle tip is precisely positioned and that motor function is not at risk.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Sedation is available for patients who prefer it. Most patients are in and out within 90 minutes including preparation and recovery. You will need a driver home if sedation is used.
Follow-up is typically scheduled at 4 to 6 weeks to assess your response. If pain returns after relief, the procedure can be repeated.
Why Choose DVPSI for Radiofrequency Ablation?
DVPSI physicians perform lumbar and cervical radiofrequency ablation at all three locations. Dr. Todd Bromberg and Dr. Atish Patel have performed hundreds of RFA procedures for patients with chronic facet joint pain, neck pain, and spondylosis.
- Fluoroscopic guidance with stimulation testing at every procedure
- Full diagnostic workup including medial branch blocks before ablation
- Prior authorization management handled by our staff
- Covered by Medicare and most major commercial insurance plans
- Lumbar, cervical, and sacroiliac RFA all available
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers from our physicians about radiofrequency ablation.
Ready to find lasting relief?
Our board-certified specialists will evaluate whether radiofrequency ablation is right for you. Same-week appointments available at all three locations.